County Fair Gets Rolling, Performing And Judging

November 2, 2001|By Charlene Hager-Van Dyke, Sentinel Staff Writer

DELAND -- The 57th annual Volusia County Fair and Youth Show kicked off Thursday with the annual Miss Volusia County Fair contest, a variety of musical performances and the judging of everything from poultry and fowl to cross-bred cattle.

A full slate of events and activities is scheduled today through Nov. 11.

And much to the surprise of fair organizers, opening day attendance was even better than expected.

"So far, so good," Fair Manager David Viers said a short time after exhibitors polished up their wares and the gates officially opened. "But," he admitted, "It could have something to do with Florida Power paying the admission for everyone" Thursday.

Admission during the rest of the fair will be $6 for adults and $3 for children between the ages of 6 and 12. Children under age 6 are free.

For performance times, call the fair office at 386-734-9515.

Viers, fair manager the past 12 years, said he thinks the Sept. 11 tragedy made an impact on this year's event by bringing both exhibitors and fairgoers out of their homes.

"There are more exhibitors than last year, and I hope we'll have more people attending," he said. "I think it's because people are staying closer to home and attending their hometown fairs and activities."

This year's fair will have more than 45 rides and shows, several well-known singers and musicians, including country singer Eric Heatherly and tributes to Britney Spears, 'N Sync and Ricky Martin by impersonators.

Also featured will be hypnotist Tony Yuzulk, Robinson's Racing Pigs, Hannie the Clown, the Phillips Petting Zoo, Rock-It the Robot and Steve Trash, a magician who entertains while spreading the word on the importance of recycling.

"You never really know what the biggest draw is," Viers said. "Some people come to hear the singers, some to ride the rides and others to just walk around and get something to eat."